Places to visit in The Cotswolds | Wild Thyme & Honey Hotel

Explore the Cotswolds

Wild Thyme & Honey is situated in one of the most coveted parts of the Cotswolds, near ancient towns and postcard-pretty villages, must-visit farm shops, historic houses to explore and so much more.

Local villages and towns:

Cirencester

Known as the capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester has a rich Roman past with handsome streets of golden stone and a wealth of independent shops, historic landmarks and lush green parks. Head to Black Jack Street, where antique shops like French Gray mingle with bookstores and our favourite cafe, Knead Bakery.

Bibury

A quintessentially lovely Cotswolds village, Bibury has endless honey-coloured stone cottages dating back to the 17th century. It’s so lovely in fact that the 19th century artist William Morris called it the most beautiful village in England — and we think you’ll likely agree. Drop into Twig for great coffee and baked treats or visit the trout farm if you have the kids in tow.

Burford

Burford is a quaint town in the northwest of the Cotswolds with a 12th century church, plenty of pubs and restaurants. It is also home to the much-loved Burford Garden Company which is a veritable shopping mecca worthy of a day out. There’s a lovely, sleek cafe, vintage furniture and children’s clothes, among other things.

Tetbury

Arguably one of the most stylish market towns in the Cotswolds, Tetbury has historic connections with the wool trade and the Royals — Prince Charles’ Highgrove estate is nearby. A treasure trove of antique shops, there are more than 25 independent dealers including Lorfords and Brownrigg. Also not to miss are Domestic Science, Yellow Lighted Bookshop and the Westonbirt Arboretum.

Farm shops & delicatessens

The Cotswolds are a natural larder, which means the area is brimming with delicious delicatessens and top-notch farm shops. Daylesford Organic in Kingham is almost a day out in itself — check out its dedicated cheese room, stylish homewares, and even book in for a massage at its Bamford Spa. Upton Smokery, just outside Burford, has all sorts of goodies from smoked fish and meats to veg, as well as a rustic restaurant that does BBQ nights. Farmers’ market devotees should make a beeline for the Cirencester Farmers’ Market, which is on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month, and pop into the Organic Farm Shop while you’re in town.